Rooftop solar in Australia have now surpassed the milestone of four million installations, making it the second biggest contributor to the nation’s renewable energy generation.
Rooftop solar now totals more than 11% of Australia’s renewable energy generation, with renewables now contributing more than 40% of Australia’s electricity.
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Clean Energy Council CEO Kane Thornton said that by installing rooftop solar, Australian households have now collectively saved up to $6 billion annually off their energy bills.
“The progress is a huge credit to the 10,000 installers across the country, without whom this incredible feat would not have been possible,” he said.
“Our report, Powering Homes, Empowering People, published earlier this year, highlights the huge value that consumer energy resources can bring to Australia, if the Step Change scenario laid out in the Australian Energy Market Operator’s Integrated System Plan is achieved.
“To fully maximise rooftop solar, Australia now needs to fully embrace home battery systems to ensure solar energy is used when it is needed most.”
Electrification advocacy organisation Rewiring Australia has also called for further household electrification incentives.
“Australian households are showing the world how to reduce emissions and bills and electrification will deliver even greater impact,” Rewiring Australia executive director Dan Cass said.
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“This country’s rooftop solar is the world’s cheapest-delivered source of energy and that is what is driving this household energy revolution.
“The 4 million household milestone is a momentous achievement that demonstrates the power of community action and smart government policy.”